If you own a home in Burnaby, understanding your Burnaby development potential could be more important than ever. Recent zoning changes have created new opportunities for small-scale multi-unit housing, while New Westminster has introduced similar changes through its new Infill Housing Program.
Even if you have no plans to build, knowing what could potentially be developed on your property may influence how buyers, builders and developers view its value.
So, what can you build in 2026 — and could your property be worth more because of it?Burnaby Development Potential in 2026
Burnaby’s new Zoning Bylaw came into effect on July 1, 2026, expanding opportunities for Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH).
Under Burnaby’s R1 zoning, eligible properties may accommodate three to six dwelling units, depending on factors such as lot size and proximity to frequent transit.
Potential housing options include:
- Duplexes
- Multiplexes
- Cottage courts or clusters
- Rowhouses
- Secondary suites
This doesn’t mean every property can automatically accommodate six units. Lot size, dimensions, location and other requirements will determine what’s realistically possible.
However, the changes mean Burnaby development potential is worth considering when evaluating a property — particularly one that has traditionally been marketed only as a single-family home.What Can You Build in New Westminster?
New Westminster has also expanded its infill housing options.
Through its 2026 Infill Housing Program, eligible properties may accommodate up to four or six units, depending on the property and zoning.
Potential housing forms include duplexes, triplexes, quadplexes, multiplexes, secondary suites and laneway or carriage homes.
Many eligible properties have also been pre-zoned, removing the need for a separate site-specific rezoning application to access housing already permitted by the property’s zoning.
Queensborough is currently different, with further infrastructure work required before similar changes are implemented.
Could Development Potential Increase Your Property Value?
Potentially — but additional density doesn’t automatically equal a higher sale price.
When evaluating Burnaby development potential, builders and developers will look beyond zoning. Factors can include:
- Lot size and dimensions
- Number of units potentially permitted
- Location and proximity to transit
- Site access and topography
- Servicing requirements
- Construction costs
- Potential value of the finished homes
Two properties that look very similar from the street could have very different development opportunities — and potentially attract different buyers.
That’s why it’s important to understand the individual property rather than assuming new zoning automatically means a higher value.Who Is the Best Buyer for Your Property?
For some properties, the highest-value buyer may still be a family looking for a home.
For others, Burnaby development potential could make the property more attractive to a builder or developer.
And sometimes, the property may appeal to both.
Before selling, it’s worth understanding three things:
- What can potentially be built?
- What might a builder or developer be willing to pay?
- What could the property sell for on the open market?
Final Thoughts
Real estate in Burnaby and New Westminster is changing.
As both cities make room for more housing, property value may increasingly be influenced not only by the home that’s there today, but by what could potentially be built there tomorrow.
At the Adam Lloyd Home Selling Team, we work throughout Burnaby and New Westminster and understand that properties with development potential require a different approach.
If you’re curious about your Burnaby development potential, or wondering how recent zoning changes in Burnaby or New Westminster could affect your property’s value, connect with our team.
We’ll help you understand both sides of the equation: what your property is worth today and what its future potential could mean when it’s time to sell.
Development potential varies by property. Zoning and municipal requirements can change, and additional permits or approvals may be required. Property owners should confirm current requirements with the applicable municipality before making development decisions. Contact The Adam Lloyd Home Selling Team, we can help you understand what’s currently available, where the best value is and how to compete in this price range. Reach out anytime for a no-pressure conversation.Thinking about a move in Burnaby or New Westminster?
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